Ride Into Fun With These Community Bike Rides - Oak Park & the Near West Suburbs

Biking in Brookfield, IL

Cycle Brookfield is on a mission to transform Brookfield into a more bike-friendly community, advocating for safer, easier, and more enjoyable biking experiences for residents and visitors alike. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing education, advocacy, and community engagement, Cycle Brookfield champions expanding bike lanes and routes, improving cycling connections to neighboring suburbs and Chicago, and implementing secure bike parking facilities. By fostering a vibrant and inclusive cycling community, Cycle Brookfield aims to create a safer, healthier, and more economically vibrant Brookfield for all.

One of Cycle Brookfield's standout initiatives is its commitment to hosting fun and engaging cycling events designed for riders of all ages and skill levels. From leisurely rides through scenic neighborhoods to exhilarating cycling challenges, these events offer something for everyone to enjoy. A highlight of the group's event calendar is the Slow Roll social ride, a beloved community tradition that brings neighbors together for an evening of camaraderie on two wheels. Participants can choose between a 5-mile or 2.5-mile course as they pedal alongside fellow cyclists, soaking in the sights and sounds of Brookfield. With a strong emphasis on fostering community connections, the Slow Roll is a fantastic opportunity to experience the joy of cycling while strengthening bonds within the neighborhood.

At the core of Cycle Brookfield's mission is the belief that a more bikeable Brookfield enhances safety and health outcomes and fosters a sense of belonging and community pride. By advocating for improved cycling infrastructure and organizing inclusive events, Cycle Brookfield is actively shaping a future where biking is not just a mode of transportation but a catalyst for positive social change. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, Cycle Brookfield welcomes you to join the movement toward a more bike-friendly Brookfield.

Mark your calendar for these upcoming events: 

First Friday Slow Roll Social Rides —May 3, June 7, Aug 2, Sept 6, Oct 4

A monthly Slow Roll Social Ride to enjoy local roads and meet other cyclists.

Cycle Brookfield Bike Safety Tune-Up Day — May 11 

Annual event to help cyclists get their bikes ready for the riding season.

4th of July Village of Brookfield Parade — July 4

Bring your bicycle and join your neighbors biking in the 4th of July parade. 

Cycle Brookfield Bike Brookfield Week — July 22-29

This annual week-long village cycling event promotes biking in Brookfield. 

For more information, go to: http://cyclebrookfield.com/ 

While you’re in town

While biking in Brookfield, take in the sights and explore this bustling suburb. Make sure to check out Brookfield Zoo. Celebrating its 90th Anniversary, the zoo has a captivating lineup of new animals and a towering 130-ft Ferris wheel to enjoy. Or check out the Disney-style Grossdale Station, home to the Brookfield Historical Society, featuring a fun museum with great exhibits and memorabilia. 

If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area, like Irish Times, a pub and restaurant with traditional Irish offerings, or Burger Antics for juicy cheeseburgers and spicy chicken sandwiches.  

Biking in Oak Park, IL

The Oak Park Cycle Club is a membership-based bike club serving the Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park, and Berwyn communities, providing a welcoming environment for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Every ride is a good ride with them, as members explore casual riding, fitness cycling, and bike touring, among other activities. Whether individuals are seasoned riders or just starting, they'll find a supportive community eager to share the joy of biking through scenic routes and charming neighborhoods. The club prides itself on inclusivity and kindness, ensuring no rider is left behind, and everyone in the cycling family feels welcome.

At the Oak Park Cycle Club, belief in the power of cycling to foster wellness, community, and adventure is paramount. The diverse array of rides caters to various interests and abilities, from training rides focused on fitness and speed to leisurely show-and-go rides perfect for riders of all levels. Families are encouraged to join the family rides, where parents and children can bond over shared experiences in the great outdoors. Additionally, the club's advocacy for cycling extends beyond its members as they participate in charity rides and promote safe cycling practices in the communities. Whether individuals are seeking a casual evening roll, an off-road adventure, or a charitable cause to support, the Oak Park Cycle Club extends a warm welcome with open arms and wheels ready to roll.

Click here to learn more about becoming a member. 

While You’re in Town

While you're in town in Oak Park, there's no shortage of things to do and places to explore. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the classics like One Lake Brewing, where you can enjoy a refreshing beer after a bike ride or head to Kribi for a cozy coffee break. For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss out on the delicious treats at Broken Tart. Take a leisurely stroll along Lake Street in downtown Oak Park, where you'll discover and enjoy many wonderful restaurants, shops, and cafes. Whether you're in the mood for a bite to eat, a sip of coffee, or some retail therapy, Oak Park has something to offer for everyone.

Biking in Riverside, IL

Ride Riverside is gearing up for an exciting "Slow Roll" Community Bicycle Rides series, kicking off on April 12th at 6 pm and continuing on the second Friday of every month throughout 2024. These leisurely rides offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the joy of biking through the charming streets of Riverside, IL, alongside neighbors, friends, and family. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting, all ages and abilities are welcome to join the fun. With a commitment to inclusivity, every rider is invited to join, ensuring a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for all participants. Each ride will explore a different route, showcasing Riverside's scenic beauty and architectural wonders, starting from the Riverside train station.

As participants pedal through Riverside's picturesque streets, they'll have the chance to immerse themselves in the village's unique charm and history. Riverside's commitment to preserving Frederick Law Olmsted's vision of tree-lined avenues and tranquil neighborhoods provides the perfect backdrop for these community rides. However, despite the village's bike-friendly atmosphere, there's a need for improved biking infrastructure and safety measures to ensure a truly bike-friendly environment. By coming together for these monthly rides, participants not only enjoy a leisurely bike ride but also have the opportunity to advocate for enhanced biking connectivity and safety measures in Riverside and surrounding areas. Additionally, Ride Riverside is open to incorporating themed rides and welcomes architecture and community development experts to join in and share their insights during the rides. For those without access to a bike, complimentary rentals can be arranged through Gears2You, ensuring everyone can participate in this community-building event.

Make sure to mark your calendar for upcoming events: 

Riverside Slow Roll Bicycle Ride - April 12, May 10, June 14, July 12, August 9 & more

Riverside Ride - May 18 (more details to come!)

Click here to check their Facebook page for more info. 

While you’re in town

While you enjoy the winding, curvilinear streets with green space at every turn, don’t forget to visit downtown Riverside. From Italian and Mexican cuisines to spas and specialty stores, this charming town has so much to offer. Stop in for a signature Chicago thin-crust pizza at La Barra, or grab a warm, flaky pastry stuffed with premium beef, Spanish onions, and green olives at Empanadus. There’s a lot more to Riverside than meets the eye.

Why bike?

Biking in the suburbs is a great activity to hop on your two-wheeler and hit the road for many reasons. First and foremost, biking is a fantastic way to prioritize fitness and wellness. Not only does it provide a full-body workout, but it also promotes mental well-being by offering a refreshing escape into nature. Joining biking clubs enhances this experience, fostering a sense of community and social connections. Cyclists can forge friendships and strengthen bonds through group rides and shared adventures while pedaling through picturesque suburban landscapes. 

Biking also opens up endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you're discovering hidden trails, charming neighborhoods, or beautiful scenery, every ride promises a new discovery. And let's not forget the environmental benefits - biking is a sustainable mode of transportation, reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly lifestyles. By choosing to bike, you're not just enjoying the ride - you're actively contributing to a healthier, happier, and more sustainable future for our planet.

Meet Us for a Ride!

Biking in the near west suburbs offers opportunities for adventure, connection, and well-being. From the vibrant biking clubs in Brookfield, Oak Park, and Riverside to the myriad benefits of joining them, including fitness, community, exploration, and sustainability, the suburban landscape becomes a playground waiting to be explored on two wheels. As you embark on your biking journey, consider joining a biking club, discovering scenic routes, and connecting with like-minded cyclists to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant biking culture of these towns. It's time to let the open road lead you to new experiences, friendships, and unforgettable moments in the burbs. Happy cycling!